This is a specified relationship layout that uses nine tiles to analyse where a romantic relationship is at and where it is headed. The first tile shows where it is at now, and can be considered the significator. The second and third tiles determine where your partner stands and how it relates to where you are at personally.
Above the stem, the three-card base of the layout, a cup forms. Tiles #4 and #5 show each person's desires, meaning what they want to get out of this coupling. Above this, Tiles #6 and #7 show the challenge that this pairing presents to each individual. The final two tiles at the top form the rim of the cup, symbolic of the taste of the relationship to each person, which shows how things will turn out on each side.

The Future Outcome (To be read in tandem with the tile below)![]() Bamboo 4 |
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The Future Outcome (To be read in tandem with the tile above)![]() Bamboo 3 |
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Challenges Which May Arise for You![]() Plum Blossom |
Challenges Which May Arise for Your Lover![]() Chrysanthemum |
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Desires in Relation to Your Question![]() Bamboo 6 |
Your Lover's Desires![]() Summer |
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Nature of Your Issue![]() Bamboo 2 |
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Your Lover's Current Position![]() Wan 9 |
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The Current State of Things![]() Bamboo 9 |
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The Current State of Things
The Willow stands for diplomacy and adaptability, especially regarding tough times and harsh environments. Strength and flexibility are traits of this sign, as the willow bends but will not break. This sign often foretells a need for compromise.
The Heaven tile signifies achievement, completion, and fulfilment. It suggests perfect contentment and a time you can be free to kick back and feast upon the fruits of your labours.
The Duck symbolises enduring partnerships – long lasting relationships with the strength to overcome all obstacles. It suggests fidelity and trustworthiness, just as ducks are monogamous for life.
The Water tile is about communication and traveling. You may be looked to for advice on something regarding your unique experience.
The Woodcutter represents success through activity. The woodcutter puts Fire, Wood and Metal to work for him in his craft. He represents skilled labour, ambition, and creativity.
The Plum represents spring, youth, innocence, inexperience, and childlike happiness. It may be a sign that you need a fresh perspective on something. Something in your life may need to be re-evaluated.
The Chrysanthemum is a symbol of entertainment and leisure time. Social activities will be happy and fulfilling. You might even want to take a vacation and have the time of your life.
The Carp signifies peace, contentment, tranquillity, and freedom from the pressures of everyday life. The tile's vibrant colours symbolise a gain of material and/or spiritual wealth.
The Toad represents an ugly time that cannot pass soon enough for you. However, you will get through these troubling times soon and all will be well. Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew.